​Yoga is a mind and body practice with historical origins in ancient Indian philosophy. Like other meditative movement practices used for health purposes, various styles of yoga typically combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. Yoga in its full form combines these with a distinct philosophy. While there are numerous styles of yoga, Hatha yoga, commonly practiced in the United States and Europe, emphasizes postures, breathing exercises and meditation.

Many people who practice yoga do so to maintain their health and well-being, improve physical fitness, relieve stress, and enhance quality of life. In addition, they may be addressing specific health conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, arthritis and anxiety.

Current NCCIH research suggests that a carefully adapted set of yoga poses may reduce lower-back pain and improve function. Other studies also suggest that practicing yoga (as well as other forms of regular exercise) might improve quality of life, reduce stress, lower heart rate and blood pressure, help relieve anxiety, depression, and insomnia, and improve overall physical fitness, strength and flexibility.

In celebration of National Yoga Month, the Division of Amenities and Transportation Services, in partnership with the R&W Fitness Center, will be offering free yoga-related events in the month of September including sunrise yoga classes, a webinar related to lower back pain, a chair yoga videocast, and more. For a full list of events, please visit https://wellnessatnih.nih.gov beginning September 3. 

Namaste.